10 Reasons to Reconsider the Above-Ground Pool

On a sloped property, it’s possible to position an above-ground pool so that it looks like an in-ground one. A modern wood deck and high-end furniture add to the classy illusion.

An above-ground pool with a stained or painted wood surround looks appealing from all angles. Shown here, a pool house drives home the feeling of luxurious comfort.

Natural materials thoughtfully positioned on a sloped site make this above-ground pool appear right at home in the yard. The lesson? To seamlessly blend your pool into the environment, opt for a surround made of local stone or wood.

A lap pool is an excellent tool for staying fit, but as this design demonstrates, it can also be a stunning water feature. This custom job is made from concrete but incorporates a hardwood deck, which adds such warmth richness to the overall installation.

Pools with glass inserts are perfect for small courtyards. And though they must be custom-made (and cost a small fortune), there’s no denying their jaw-dropping visual impact.

Just as the right accessories can make an outfit, the right outdoor furniture and hardscaping can upgrade the look of an above-ground pool. Here, the pool’s wooden surround is visually of a piece with the ladder and patio chairs. And to ease the transition from the grassy yard, the edges of the simple wood deck are fringed by low plants.

Its freeform shape and custom bluestone steps transform this above-ground pool into something quite extraordinary. The steps do triple duty: While covering the surround, they allow entry from any point along the perimeter and provide generous space for bathers to sit near the water.

Multi-level wooden decks smooth the transition between the yard and pool in this smartly devised layout. An above-ground spa is a welcome extra, and containers of flowering plants deliver a nice decorative touch.

Thoughtfully installed decking around the back half of this pool allows it to function like an in-ground design. The focal point of the landscaping is a dramatic rock retaining wall planted with palms, and a wood-plank surround that matches the deck yields a cohesive look.

An above-ground “endless” lap pool, functioning like a treadmill but for swimming, enables the homeowners to get plenty of exercise, even in their relatively small yard. The pool’s edge is lined with stained wooden boards for lounging after a workout, and checkerboard-pattern pavers add to the design’s pleasing geometric style.